Can a multiple sclerosis drug help people with rare motor neuron disease walk better?
NCT ID NCT02868567
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This early-stage trial tests the drug dalfampridine (Ampyra), already used for multiple sclerosis, in 35 adults with primary lateral sclerosis or upper motor neuron ALS. The main goal is to see if it safely improves walking speed, measured by a timed 25-foot walk. Researchers will also check effects on quality of life and daily function over 18 weeks.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- dalfampridine (Ampyra)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a treatment to improve walking speed and quality of life for people with primary lateral sclerosis.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early, small Phase 1 trial with only 35 participants and no placebo group, so results may not be reliable or generalizable. The drug may cause side effects like seizures or allergic reactions.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Mass General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States
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Shara Holzberg
New York, New York, 10021, United States
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University of Florida Gainsville
Gainesville, Florida, 32607, United States